Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Symptoms & Research at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine

Dr. Andrea Dunaif, M.D., is the Charles F. Kettering Professor of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Professor of Medicine, and Chief of The Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine at the Feinberg School of Medicine of Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois. She is an internationally known expert on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is the most common endocrine disease in premenopausal women. Dr. Dunaif and colleagues conduct research studies on the causes of PCOS and how to better predict, diagnose and treat this disease.

These PCOS research studies are supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health.

Overview of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS, which may also be referred to as polycystic ovary disease (PCOD) is the most common hormonal disorder found in premenopausal women. PCOS affects 7% of women from all races and nationalities.

Typically, PCOS symptoms first appear in adolescence, normally around the start of menstruation. Occasionally, some women do not develop PCOS symptoms until their early to mid-20s. One of the most common symptoms of PCOS is irregular periods.

Although the cause of PCOS is unknown, women with PCOS have high male hormone levels, which can lead to acne, extra facial and body hair, and irregular periods. Additionally, PCOS is the leading cause of hormonal infertility.

Other symptoms associated with PCOS are the heart disease risk factors of weight gain, cholesterol problems, high blood pressure, insulin resistance and diabetes. PCOS may also increase the risk of developing endometrial cancer.

What is understood is that PCOS is an inherited disease. Sisters and daughters of women with PCOS are at high risks themselves of developing PCOS. In addition, both female and male relatives have an increased risk of getting diabetes and heart disease.

Research Studies on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

The PCOS Research Studies are supported by the following grants from the National Institutes of Health:
NIH / NICHD P50 HD 044405: SCOR - Genes Androgens and Intrauterine Environment in PCOS
NIH / NIDDK R01 DK073411: Metabolic Syndrome in PCOS: Precursors and Intervention

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